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FDA expands recall list, adds more pet-food products

Jan 28, 2009

By dvm360.com staff

DVM360 MAGAZINE

Rockville, Md. -- The list of recalled products containing peanut derivatives, compiled by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, has grown over the last few days, with seven additional pet-food products being added.

The FDA confirmed through testing that the source for the Salmonella typhimurium outbreak is a Blakely, Ga., plant owned by the Peanut Corp. of America (PCA). Peanut products made at the facility are distributed in 5- to 1,700-pound containers of peanut butter or 35-pound containers of peanut paste as ingredients to various food manufacturers, according to the FDA. The company does not sell direct to the consumer, and the only peanut butter included in the recall is a King Nut-brand peanut butter distributed to institutions.

No pets have been reported ill, the FDA says, but many humans have been affected.

The recall list will be updated as the investigation continues. The FDA advises pet owners to wash their hands with hot water and soap before and after handling pet foods and treats. Pet-food bowls and utensils also should also be washed after each use.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some show signs of decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Well animals can be carriers. Anyone with a pet that consumed a recalled product and has these symptoms, should contact a veterinarian.

A full list of recalled peanut-butter or paste products, including pet foods, can be found here.